The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that by 2029, employment in STEM Occupations will increase by 8%, more than double the rate of non-STEM careers. And the fact that the median STEM salary is more than double that of non-STEM salaries underscores the importance of effective K-12 STEM instruction.
STEM subjects can be dense and difficult for students to tackle, so these top STEM apps can be a valuable addition to your STEM teaching toolkit. Most offer free basic accounts and all are designed to capture users' imaginations through games, puzzles, and high-quality graphics and sound.
The best STEM apps for education
Periodic table 2024: chemistry iOS Android tech/” target=”_blank” data-no-affiliate-tracking=”true”>Web
An extremely popular free app that provides a lot of useful information about the periodic table and its chemical elements. Click on any item to reveal a submenu of images, history, properties, solubility, Wikipedia links, and more. With more than 40,000 reviews, this application has a remarkable average of 4.8 stars out of five. The developers keep the app up to date and respond to selected comments. Don't have a mobile device? Don't worry, the web version can be accessed from your desktop computer and is very easy to use.
Tynker: coding for kids iOS Android
An award-winning app, Tynker Coding for Kids teaches the basics of coding and beyond with games and puzzles that teach coding principles. More than 200 starter tutorials help users practice skills with each new step. But it's so much more than just learning skills: kids can create and launch their own characters, weapons, drones, and more for Minecraft, Crystal Clash, and Barbie. Free app with in-app purchases. To unlock all features, purchase a subscription for $24.99 per month or $59.99 per quarter.
Embibe Froggipedia iOS Android
Froggipedia, Apple's former App of the Year, invites users to embark on a virtual exploration and dissection of frogs, all without textbooks, lab space, or ethical concerns. High-quality images and animations demonstrate the anatomy, life cycle, and behavior of frogs in a way that will engage children in learning about frog biology and spark their interest in other life science topics.
K-5 Science for Kids – Tappity iOS
Guided by science expert Haley, kids learn science with thousands of fun lessons, activities, questions and interactive stories covering more than 100 topics, including astronomy, Earth science, physics and biology. Lessons align with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Try it for free, with several paid subscription plans.
The Elements of Theodore Gray iOS
Animated with high-quality, detailed 3D graphics, The Elements by Theodore Gray brings the periodic table to life. With its strong visual appeal, it is ideal for engaging science students of any age, while older students will benefit from the depth of information presented.
The explorers iOS Android
This former Apple TV App of the Year winner invites amateur and professional photographers and scientists to contribute their photos and videos of animals, plants, and natural landscapes to this extensive showcase of Earth's wonders.
Hopscotch-Programming for children iOS
Designed for iPad and also available for iPhone and iMessage, Hopscotch-Programming for Kids teaches kids ages 4 and up the basics of programming and game/app creation. This multi-award winner is an Apple Editors' Choice.
Inventors iOS Android
Kids learn physics while having fun creating and sharing their own inventions, with the help of inventors Windy, Blaze and Bunny. Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner.
Minecraft: Educational Edition iOS Android
The ultimate building app for students, teachers, and kids of all ages, Minecraft is both a game and a powerful teaching tool. The educational version offers hundreds of lessons aligned to STEM standards and curricula, tutorials, and exciting building challenges. For teachers, students, or schools without a Minecraft: Education Edition subscription, try the wildly popular original Minecraft: iOS Android.
Monster Math: Fun Games for Kids iOS Android
This highly touted gamified math app allows kids to learn and practice Common Core math standards from grades 1 to 3. Features include multiple levels, skill filtering, multiplayer mode, and detailed reports with skill-by-skill analysis.
prodigy math game iOS Android
Prodigy uses a game-based adaptive learning approach to engage students in grades 1-8 in developing and practicing math skills. Math questions are aligned to state-level curricula, including Common Core and TEKS.
SkySafari iOS Android
Like a pocket planetarium, SkySafari allows students to explore, locate and identify millions of celestial objects, from satellites to planets and constellations. Try the voice control feature or use it in augmented reality mode to combine a simulated sky map with the real view of the night sky.
